Lord of the Web

Google earth seems to have become more useful for the terrorists intending to wreak havoc across the world. Ever since the search engine company released its “virtual globe, map and geographic information program”, many people have been criticizing it, saying that Google Earth may put sensitive information in the wrong hands.

Now, in the wake of the Mumbai Terror attacks, a PIL has been filed in the Bombay High Court seeking ban on Google Earth. The PIL refers to the easy access to satellite images of sensitive locations in India and demanded removal of images of the country from Google Earth. The PIL also goes to the extent of asking for a complete ban on Google Earth if the removal images is not done. It is to be noted here that even the ISRO is mulling about bringing out a similar program, by the name of Bhuvan. It is to be seen if any opposition comes to such a move from ISRO, as well.

The PIL might even come to show India in poor light. A country not able to protect its people from terrorists and blaming a popular tool for its intelligence failure, is not a good picture indeed. PILs in India have usually been publicity gimmicks by people requiring some airtime.

Many Indians have come against the PIL. One even voiced with witticism that he is going to file a PIL to “ban 5 star hotels”.The need of the hour is not a ban on Google Earth but more concrete security systems in place and a more effective intelligence agency in the country, along the lines of the CIA and the NSA. It’s time our politicians came back to “earth” and took some effective measures.